Commando

The Ramones' song "Commando" is a satirical and somewhat absurd take on the military and societal norms during the Vietnam War era. The lyrics, with their repetitive structure and simple language, reflect the punk rock ethos of the band, which often involved critiquing societal issues with a mix of humor and rebellion. The song's narrative revolves around the preparation of soldiers for Vietnam, highlighting the absurdity and contradictions inherent in military training and societal expectations.

The song opens with the lines, "They do their best, they do what they can / They get them ready for Vietnam," which sets the stage for a critique of the military's efforts to prepare soldiers for war. The mention of locations like Hanoi and East Berlin juxtaposes the Vietnam War with the Cold War, suggesting a broader commentary on global conflicts and the role of the military-industrial complex. The repeated phrase "Commando, involved again" implies a never-ending cycle of military involvement and intervention.

The rules listed in the song—"The laws of Germany," "Be nice to mommy," "Don't talk to commies," and "Eat kosher salamis"—are a mix of serious and absurd directives. This blend of the mundane with the significant highlights the often arbitrary and contradictory nature of societal rules and military regulations. The reference to Germany's laws and the Cold War-era fear of communism, combined with the humorous directive to eat kosher salamis, underscores the irrationality and confusion that can accompany strict adherence to rules without questioning their purpose or relevance.

"Commando" by the Ramones uses satire to critique the military and societal norms of its time, blending humor with serious commentary to question the logic and morality of war and the rules that govern society. The song's punk rock style, characterized by its straightforward lyrics and repetitive structure, amplifies its message, making it both a catchy and thought-provoking piece.